Khyah Harper becomes first Minnesota player in NWSL since 2017 with Gotham FC contract

Khyah Harper, a forward for the Gophers, has signed a contract with NJ/NY Gotham FC in the National Women’s Soccer League for the 2025 season. She is the first Minnesota player to join the league since 2017. Harper, from Lino Lakes, scored 17 goals last fall, ranking in the Top 10 nationally. She received accolades as the Big Ten forward of the year and was a semifinalist for the MAC Hermann Trophy. The NWSL has changed its player recruitment process, eliminating the college draft. Players can now negotiate contracts directly with teams.